How to structure an essay that actually argues something

Most essays lose marks not because the ideas are wrong, but because the structure makes them hard to follow. A marker should be able to see your argument from the introduction alone.

Start with a thesis — one sentence that states your position. Every paragraph after that should support, develop or qualify it. Open each paragraph with a topic sentence, give your evidence, then explain why it matters before linking to the next point.

Finish by returning to your thesis and showing how the argument has earned it. Keep referencing consistent throughout, and leave time to proofread — clarity is a grade in itself.